The government of the south Indian state of Tamil Nadu on Tuesday informed the State Legislative Assembly that it was taking steps to protect the livelihood of fishermen in Chennai following the oil spill along the coast due to last weekend’s collision of two tanker ships in Ennore. Nonetheless, it was pointed out that the issue of oil spill at the port was a Central subject.
Raising the issue during the Question Hour in the Assembly, DMK MLA and former Fisheries Minister K.P.P. Samy (representing Tiruvottiyur) sought to know if the State was taking any steps to tackle the issue. While Speaker P. Dhanapal cut him short, DMK members led by Leader of the Opposition M.K. Stalin insisted that Mr. Samy be allowed to complete his question.
The House proceedings were disrupted for a few minutes as the DMK MLAs objected to the Chair’s refusal to permit Mr. Samy to speak on the issue. Mr. Stalin nonetheless persisted and completed his colleague’s question.
In response, Fisheries Minister D. Jayakumar said, This is not a State subject but a Central subject. However, we have contacted the Kamarajar Port in Ennore and are taking action to protect the livelihood of fishermen.
According to the Minister, about a tonne of oil was spilled and since the ships had insurance, the fishermen need not worry about the loss of livelihood. He added that the situation would become normal within a few days. The coastal areas from Ennore to Thiruvanmiyur were affected and about 5,000 litre of oil was collected in these areas. A meeting headed by the Chief Secretary would be held and necessary action taken.
DMK Deputy Floor Leader Durai Murugan spoke about a fire accident at a private firm near Katpadi in Vellore district on Monday. Revenue Minister R.B. Udhayakumar claimed none was injured in the incident.
The Minister said that six fire tenders and about 40 fire personnel were involved in putting out the fire, which broke out at 6.30 a.m. on Monday. SIPCOT police were inquiring into the issue and Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board was looking into whether it had triggered any pollution-related issues, he added.
Environment Minister K.C. Karuppannan too added that the fire was under control.
2017, The Hindu